Top 42 Slang For Cut – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to getting a fresh new haircut, knowing the right lingo can make all the difference in communicating your desired style to your hairdresser. We’ve got you covered with a list of the trendiest and most popular slang terms for a haircut. From fades to layers, this list will have you speaking the language of the salon in no time. So, buckle up and get ready to upgrade your haircut vocabulary game!

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1. Chop

This term is often used to describe cutting food, but can also be used more generally.

For example, a chef might say, “Chop the onions into small pieces.”
In a conversation about woodworking, someone might say, “I need to chop this board in half.”
A person discussing haircuts might say, “I’m going to chop off a few inches.”

2. Slice and dice

This phrase is commonly used in cooking and can also be used metaphorically.

For instance, a recipe might instruct, “Slice and dice the vegetables before adding them to the pot.”
In a discussion about time management, someone might say, “I need to slice and dice my to-do list to make it more manageable.”
A person talking about a difficult task might say, “I sliced and diced through the project to get it done on time.”

3. Carve

This term is commonly associated with carving meat, but can also be used in other contexts.

For example, a chef might say, “Carve the turkey into thin slices.”
In a discussion about sculpture, someone might say, “I love to carve intricate designs out of wood.”
A person talking about a creative project might say, “I carved a beautiful pattern into the clay.”

4. Hack

This term can also refer to using a computer or system in a clever or unauthorized way.

For instance, a person might say, “Hack through the dense undergrowth with a machete.”
In a discussion about technology, someone might say, “I managed to hack into the system and retrieve the lost data.”
A person talking about a shortcut might say, “I found a hack to solve that problem quickly.”

5. Trim

This term is often used in relation to hair or plants, but can be used in other contexts as well.

For example, a hairstylist might say, “Let’s trim a few inches off the ends.”
In a discussion about gardening, someone might say, “I need to trim the hedges to keep them neat.”
A person talking about editing a document might say, “I trimmed down the text to make it more concise.”

6. Snip

To cut off or remove a small piece or part, often with scissors or shears. “Snip” is commonly used when referring to precise or delicate cutting.

For example, a hairstylist might say, “Let me snip off the split ends for you.”
In crafting, someone might say, “I need to snip this thread to finish the project.”
A gardener might mention, “Snip off the dead blooms to encourage new growth.”

7. Clip

To cut or remove something, usually with a quick motion. “Clip” often implies a swift or efficient cut.

For instance, a barber might say, “I’ll clip your hair to your desired length.”
In cooking, someone might say, “Clip the fresh herbs from the plant.”
A person might mention, “I’ll clip the coupons before going grocery shopping.”

8. Shear

To remove or cut off something, typically using large scissors or shears. “Shear” is often used when referring to cutting hair or wool from animals.

For example, a sheep farmer might say, “It’s time to shear the sheep for their wool.”
In hairstyling, someone might say, “I’ll shear off a few inches to give you a fresh look.”
A person discussing gardening might mention, “Shear the hedges to keep them neat and tidy.”

9. Prune

To remove or cut back branches, leaves, or other parts of a plant to improve its health, appearance, or growth. “Prune” is commonly used in gardening or landscaping contexts.

For instance, a gardener might say, “I need to prune the rose bushes to promote new blooms.”
In orchard management, someone might mention, “Prune the fruit trees in the dormant season to maintain their shape.”
A person might note, “It’s important to prune the vines to ensure proper airflow and prevent disease.”

10. Shave

To remove or cut off hair or other material from a surface using a sharp blade or razor. “Shave” is commonly used when referring to removing facial hair or hair from other parts of the body.

For example, a person might say, “I need to shave my beard before the job interview.”
In grooming, someone might mention, “Shave your legs for a smooth and clean look.”
A barber might ask, “How would you like me to shave your neckline?”

11. Split

To split means to divide or separate something into two or more parts.

For example, “He split the wood into small pieces for the fire.”
In a conversation about sharing responsibilities, someone might say, “Let’s split the tasks evenly.”
A person discussing a disagreement might say, “We had to split and go our separate ways.”

12. Lop

To lop means to cut off or remove something, often with a chopping or cutting motion.

For instance, “He lopped off the overgrown branches from the tree.”
In a discussion about gardening, someone might say, “Lop off any dead or diseased branches.”
A person talking about haircuts might say, “I’m going to lop off a few inches and get a fresh look.”

13. Sever

To sever means to cut or separate something forcefully or abruptly.

For example, “He severed the rope with a single swing of the knife.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “They decided to sever all ties and go their separate ways.”
A person discussing a serious injury might say, “The accident severed a major artery and required immediate medical attention.”

14. Gash

A gash refers to a deep and long cut, often resulting from a sharp object or a significant impact.

For instance, “He fell and got a gash on his knee.”
In a discussion about wounds, someone might say, “That’s a deep gash. You should get stitches.”
A person describing a car accident might say, “The collision left a gash on the side of the vehicle.”

15. Score

To score means to make a shallow cut or incision on a surface.

For example, “She scored the dough before baking to create a decorative pattern.”
In a conversation about cooking, someone might say, “Score the skin of the duck to help render the fat.”
A person discussing woodworking might say, “Use a sharp knife to score the wood along the marked line.”

16. Incise

To incise means to make a surgical cut or to cut into something with a sharp instrument. It is commonly used in medical and surgical contexts.

For example, a doctor might say, “I will need to incise the patient’s abdomen in order to perform the surgery.”
In a discussion about surgical techniques, one might mention, “The surgeon used a scalpel to carefully incise the skin.”
A medical student might ask, “Can you show me the proper way to incise the tissue during this procedure?”

17. Slit

A slit refers to a narrow cut or opening, often made with a sharp object. It can be used to describe a variety of cuts, both intentional and unintentional.

For instance, a tailor might say, “I need to make a small slit in the fabric to create a pocket.”
In a crime novel, a character might find a slit in a piece of clothing and wonder, “What could have caused this slit?”
A person discussing self-harm might mention, “I used to struggle with cutting and would often create small slits on my arms.”

18. Whittle

To whittle means to carve or cut away small pieces of something, usually with a knife or other sharp tool. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the process of gradually reducing or simplifying something.

For example, a woodworker might say, “I’m going to whittle this block of wood into a small figurine.”
In a discussion about time management, one might suggest, “Try to whittle down your to-do list by focusing on the most important tasks.”
A person describing their creative process might explain, “I start with a rough idea and then whittle it down into something more refined.”

19. Pare

To pare means to trim or cut off the outermost part of something, typically with a knife or sharp tool. It is often used in cooking and food preparation.

For instance, a chef might say, “I need to pare the skin off the apple before slicing it.”
In a discussion about gardening, one might mention, “I like to pare back the overgrown branches to encourage new growth.”
A person giving beauty tips might advise, “Use a gentle exfoliator to pare away dead skin cells and reveal a fresh complexion.”

20. Cleaver

A cleaver is a large, heavy knife with a broad blade, typically used for chopping meat or bones. It is often associated with butchers and is known for its ability to make clean cuts.

For example, a butcher might say, “I use a cleaver to separate the meat from the bone.”
In a discussion about cooking techniques, one might mention, “A cleaver is essential for breaking down a whole chicken.”
A person discussing kitchen tools might recommend, “Invest in a good quality cleaver for easier and more efficient food preparation.”

21. Scalpel

A scalpel is a small, extremely sharp knife used in surgery and other medical procedures. It is typically used for making precise incisions or cuts.

For example, a doctor might say, “I need a scalpel to make a clean cut here.”
In a medical TV show, a surgeon might ask for a scalpel by saying, “Scalpel, please.”
A medical student learning to use a scalpel might say, “I practiced my scalpel technique on a cadaver today.”

22. Razor

A razor is a handheld tool with a sharp blade used for shaving hair from the body. It is often used to remove facial hair or to groom other areas of the body.

For instance, someone might say, “I need to buy a new razor for shaving.”
When discussing grooming routines, a person might say, “I use a disposable razor to shave my legs.”
A person might ask for recommendations by saying, “What’s the best razor for sensitive skin?”

23. Guillotine

A guillotine is a device used for carrying out executions by beheading. It consists of a tall frame with a large, heavy blade that is dropped to sever the person’s head from their body.

For example, during the French Revolution, the guillotine was used to execute many people.
In a historical discussion, someone might say, “The guillotine was a symbol of the Reign of Terror.”
A person might use the term metaphorically and say, “His career was cut short by the guillotine of scandal.”

24. Axe

An axe is a handheld tool with a sharp blade attached to a handle. It is used for chopping or splitting wood, but it can also be used as a weapon.

For instance, someone might say, “I need an axe to chop firewood.”
In a survival situation, a person might say, “I’ll use my axe to build a shelter.”
A person discussing self-defense might say, “An axe can be a formidable weapon if used properly.”

25. Blade

A blade is a flat, narrow, and usually sharp part of a tool or weapon. It can refer to the cutting edge of a knife, sword, or other sharp object.

For example, a chef might say, “I need a sharp blade to slice this tomato.”
In a discussion about fencing, someone might say, “The foil has a flexible blade.”
A person might use the term metaphorically and say, “Her words cut like a blade.”

26. Slice

When you slice something, you are cutting it into thin, flat pieces. This term is often used when referring to cutting food, such as slicing a loaf of bread or slicing a tomato.

For example, “I’m going to slice the cake into individual servings.”
A chef might instruct, “Slice the onions thinly for the salad.”
In a cooking tutorial, the host might say, “Now we’re going to slice the chicken breast into strips.”

27. Dice

When you dice something, you are cutting it into small cubes. This term is commonly used in cooking when referring to cutting vegetables or fruits into small, uniform pieces.

For instance, “Dice the potatoes into small cubes.”
A recipe might instruct, “Dice the tomatoes and onions for the salsa.”
In a cooking show, the host might say, “Now we’re going to dice the bell peppers for the stir-fry.”

28. Mince

When you mince something, you are cutting it into very small pieces. This term is often used in cooking when referring to cutting garlic, herbs, or other ingredients into finely chopped pieces.

For example, “Mince the garlic cloves for the sauce.”
A chef might instruct, “Mince the parsley finely for garnish.”
In a cooking demonstration, the host might say, “Now we’re going to mince the ginger for the stir-fry.”

29. Slay

In slang terms, “slay” can mean to cut or kill something with great skill or success. It is often used metaphorically to describe someone who achieves something impressive or surpasses expectations.

For instance, “She slayed her performance on stage last night.”
A sports commentator might say, “The player slayed the competition with his incredible skills.”
In a music review, the critic might write, “The artist’s new album slays with its catchy beats and powerful lyrics.”

30. Cleave

To cleave something means to cut or split it with force. This term is often used when referring to cutting or splitting objects, such as chopping wood or splitting a rock.

For example, “He cleaved the log in half with a single swing of the axe.”
A carpenter might say, “I need to cleave this piece of wood into smaller sections.”
In a survival show, the host might demonstrate how to cleave open a coconut with a machete.

31. Saw

This term is often used to describe cutting or dividing something with a back-and-forth motion, similar to that of a saw.

For example, “He sawed through the log with ease.”
In a DIY project, someone might say, “I need to saw this piece of wood in half.”
A person might use this term metaphorically and say, “She sawed through the competition to win the race.”

32. Scalp

This term refers to cutting or removing the scalp, usually in a violent or forceful manner. It can also be used to describe cutting or trimming the hair.

For instance, in a historical context, “Scalping was a brutal practice among certain Native American tribes.”
In a salon, a hairstylist might say, “I’m just going to scalp a few inches off your hair.”
In a figurative sense, someone might say, “He scalped the other team with his impressive skills.”

33. Graze

This term is used to describe cutting or scraping something lightly, usually without causing deep or significant damage.

For example, “She grazed her knee when she fell off her bike.”
In a kitchen, someone might say, “I just need to graze the surface of this cake to level it.”
In a metaphorical sense, a person might say, “His words grazed my ego, but didn’t deeply hurt me.”

34. Nip

This term refers to making a small cut or incision, often with a quick or precise motion.

For instance, “He nipped the stem of the flower with his scissors.”
In a medical context, a doctor might say, “I need to nip the skin to stitch up the wound.”
In a culinary setting, a chef might say, “I’ll just nip a bit of the herb to add flavor to the dish.”

35. Flay

This term is used to describe cutting or stripping the skin or outer covering of something, often in a forceful or aggressive manner.

For example, “The butcher expertly flayed the animal to prepare the meat.”
In a horror movie, a character might say, “He was flayed alive by the killer.”
In a metaphorical sense, someone might say, “Her harsh words flayed his self-esteem.”

36. Slick

In the context of cutting, “slick” refers to making a cut that is clean and precise. It can also be used to describe someone who is skilled at cutting.

For example, a hairdresser might say, “I’ll give you a slick cut that will make you look sharp.”
In a cooking show, a chef might mention, “To make the perfect sushi, you need to make slick cuts on the fish.”
A craftsman might say, “I’ve been practicing my woodworking skills, and now I can make slick cuts with ease.”

37. Cutlet

A “cutlet” is a thin slice of meat or vegetable, often breaded and fried. In slang, it can also refer to a small cut or wound.

For instance, someone might say, “I accidentally got a cutlet on my finger while chopping vegetables.”
In a restaurant, a server might ask, “Would you like the chicken cutlet with a side of fries?”
A person discussing injuries might say, “I’ve had my fair share of cutlets from working with sharp tools.”

38. Sawn

To “sawn” something means to cut it using a saw, typically a handheld or power saw. It can also be used to describe a rough or jagged cut.

For example, a carpenter might say, “I sawn the piece of wood into smaller sections.”
In a DIY project, someone might mention, “Be careful when sawing the board to avoid making a crooked cut.”
A person discussing woodworking techniques might say, “A clean cut is important, so make sure to use the right sawing technique.”

39. Chisel

To “chisel” means to cut or carve something using a chisel, a tool with a sharp blade at the end. It can also be used metaphorically to describe manipulating or influencing a situation.

For instance, a sculptor might say, “I chiseled the marble block into a beautiful statue.”
In a conversation about negotiation skills, someone might say, “He’s a master at chiseling a deal in his favor.”
A person discussing home renovations might mention, “I need to chisel out a space for the new door.”

40. Slash

To “slash” means to make a deep, forceful cut with a sharp object, often resulting in a long and narrow wound or mark. It can also be used to describe reducing or cutting down on something.

For example, a horror movie character might say, “He slashed his victim with a knife in a gruesome scene.”
In a discussion about budgeting, someone might say, “I need to slash my expenses to save more money.”
A person describing a fight might say, “He got slashed across the face during the brawl.”

41. Scythe

A scythe is a long, curved blade attached to a handle, traditionally used for cutting grass or crops. It is often associated with the Grim Reaper, the personification of death, due to its use as a symbol of harvesting souls.

In horror movies, the Grim Reaper is often depicted wielding a scythe to reap souls.
In literature, a character might be described as having a scythe-like weapon, symbolizing their association with death or destruction.
A person discussing farming techniques might mention, “Using a scythe allows for more precise and efficient cutting of crops.”

42. Sickle

A sickle is a handheld agricultural tool with a curved blade used for cutting grass, grain, or other crops. It is typically used in manual harvesting and is often associated with rural or agricultural settings.

In historical settings, peasants might be depicted using sickles to harvest crops in paintings or literature.
A person discussing traditional farming methods might mention, “Using a sickle requires skill and precision to ensure a clean cut.”
In a conversation about crop yields, someone might say, “Harvesting with a sickle can be time-consuming but allows for more careful selection of ripe crops.”